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Rainwater-Collecting Structure with Wood and Sliding Panels for Mindful Practices

Author:
Carolina Fanelli
Rainwater-Collecting Structure with Wood and Sliding Panels for Mindful Practices
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Utilizing sliding panels and wood construction, the design captures and reuses rainwater while providing spaces for yoga and relaxation on an elevated site.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rainwater collection integrated into the roof design.
02
Constructed primarily from wood for enhanced thermal efficiency.
03
Features adaptive sliding panels for climate control and privacy.
04
Positioned on a hill to optimize solar energy access.
05
Incorporates large windows to connect interior spaces with nature.

The project is situated on a hill, chosen for its ability to capture solar energy while minimizing its ecological footprint. The elevated position allows the building to create a visual connection with the landscape, giving it a floating appearance. The design focuses on sustainability and user comfort, aiming for a balanced relationship between the built environment and nature, providing a peaceful setting for those who use it.

Key Spaces and Functions

The design includes two main areas: a tea room and a yoga space, both intended to enhance the experience of users. These rooms are set back from the roof line to reduce the impact of direct sunlight, allowing natural light to illuminate the interiors without causing discomfort. Large windows invite views of the exterior, encouraging users to engage with the landscape and fostering a connection to the outdoors.

Adaptive Architectural Elements

Surrounding the structure are innovative sliding panels, which serve multiple functions. These panels provide shade and privacy, allowing users to adjust their environment based on their needs. This feature adds flexibility to the design, enabling individuals to respond to changing light conditions throughout the day. By incorporating these movable elements, the project enhances the relationship between users and their surroundings, allowing for a personalized experience.

Sustainability and Materials

Wood serves as the primary material in the project, chosen for its insulating properties and sustainability. This material helps improve energy efficiency, stabilizing the indoor climate by providing cooling during the summer and warmth in winter. The roof is designed to collect and reuse rainwater, and it also includes photovoltaic and solar panels, highlighting a commitment to renewable energy practices.

Design Detail

A notable aspect of the roof design is the way it directs rainwater toward collection points, combining functionality with visual interest. The form of the roof adds character to the building while ensuring sustainable resource management. This thoughtful integration enhances the overall approach to both architecture and environment.

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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